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HCMH time capsule reveals handwritten scroll

Submitted by admin on Thu, 10/11/2018 - 12:03am

HCMH CEO Michelle Sleiter (left) and Director of Community Relations Mardi Ratzlaff (right) hold on to a long scroll of names of hospital foundation donors from 50 years ago. Humboldt Independent photo.

By KENT THOMPSON
In the process of reconstruction, construction workers and members of the Humboldt County Memorial Hospital (HCMH) maintenance staff unearthed something that the hospital administration did not know existed, a 1969-70 era time capsule.
Sealed in a brazed rectangular cooper box were three issues of the Humboldt Republican and Independent, including the July 25, 1970 special edition, signifying the grand opening and open house celebration of HCMH. There were also two Humboldt Reminders, a 1921 silver dollar, a hospital foundation flyer and a hospital promotional piece about the new building.
Hospital Board of Trustee members at the time were Joe Dodgen, Elden Collins, Jack Campbell, Les Mealiff, Earl Clabaugh and Jean Kleve.
Perhaps most unique of the items in the copper box is a scroll of writing papers, affixed together, with the handwritten names of 2,200 people who contributed to the hospital’s building fund 50 years ago.
People can view the items at the hospital for a very limited time. The hospital is also seeking information about the hospital's history, including old photos, articles and other personal items to share for a 50th anniversary book being planned. The hospital was established in 1969.